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Rare Books and Special Collections

The Rare Books and Special Collections of Falk Library of the Health Sciences originated with the union of materials from the former libraries of the Schools of Medicine, Dental Medicine, Nursing, and Pharmacy with the collections in Falk Library.

Since their inception, these collections have been enriched with the deposit of rare books and other historical collections from the former Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic Library and major book donations from Dr. Gerald P. Rodnan (focusing on rheumatism and gout) and Dr. Mark M. Ravitch (relating to surgery, especially hernia). Also included is a growing collection of unique and archival materials relating to people involved with the health sciences at the University of Pittsburgh and the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC).

The Rare Books Collections of the Falk Library of the Health Sciences bring together a fine selection of rare books from the former libraries of the Schools of Medicine, Dental Medicine, Graduate School of Public Health, Nursing, Pharmacy and Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic as well as notable donations of Gerald Rodnan and Mark Ravitch. They represent the tastes and interests of many collectors. The books are arranged by author and title and can be located through PittCat for the Health Sciences (Catalog). In lieu of call number, the topical collections were created. These categories expose the provenance and the strengths of our rare book collections. They focus on the most interesting books and highlight the gems. The links below offer also the list of titles in each category.